Open Day at FRECH – Presentation of the GDK4800next

Oskar Frech GmbH + Co. KG recently held an open day at its plant in Plüderhausen. Numerous customers and industry experts took the opportunity to gain a first impression of the innovation, precision and passion that have characterised the company for decades.

Today, FRECH is a family-run business operating worldwide with a pioneering and comprehensive product portfolio. The company covers the entire spectrum of die-casting technology – from machines and tooling systems to spray and mould temperature control solutions. This offering is complemented by specialised training programmes and a 24-hour service network, which underlines FRECH’s commitment to the highest standards of technology and quality. As a world-leading supplier in the field of zinc, magnesium and aluminium die-casting, FRECH delivers bespoke solutions for the diverse and constantly evolving requirements of the industry.

Guests enjoyed a varied programme featuring high-calibre technical presentations, impressive live demonstrations of the latest technologies and numerous opportunities for professional exchange.

A highlight of the day was the premiere of the new GDKnext, which was developed in close collaboration with the German Tier 1 supplier Handtmann. A particular milestone was the live announcement of the series production approval for another GDK4800next by Albert Handtmann Metallgusswerk GmbH & Co. KG – a strong signal of innovation and a successful partnership. Heiko Pfeiffer from Handtmann highlighted the intensive and effective collaboration between the development teams of both companies.

The GDK4800next at a glance

A more detailed overview of the highlights and benefits of the GDK4800next will follow in a separate article. Here is a brief summary to start with:

• Highly dynamic injection unit: Extremely fast plunger acceleration of up to 650 m/s², pressure build-up times of just 21 ms, high dynamic injection forces; universally adaptable to all component requirements.
  
  
• Reduced footprint: Reduced space requirements with large opening strokes and minimised opening/closing times.
  
  
• Energy efficiency: Significantly lower energy consumption and reduced power consumption.
  
  
• Optimised opening force: 40% higher opening force across the entire stroke – ideal for the three-bar technique.
  
  
• Highest positioning accuracy: Precise and flexible programming of opening and closing movements.
  
  
• Reduced cooling water consumption: Up to 50 per cent less water consumption thanks to innovative drive concepts.
  
  
• New hydraulic concept: Tank volume reduced by approx. 40 per cent.

CCO Dr Alexander F. Marks, together with his colleagues Jürgen Lamparter and Tobias Just, expressed great satisfaction with the success of the event. Particularly in economically challenging times, the strong response was seen as a very positive sign.

The event focused on the entire die-casting process chain. Presentations by:

• Roger Rapp (MELTEC Industrieofenbau GmbH) – Innovative furnace technology and vacuum metering for large castings.
  
  
• Norbert Obermair (ROBAMAT Automatisierungstechnik GmbH) – Innovative temperature management systems for casting large structural components.
  
  
• Dirk Könsgen (Maschinenbau Böhmer GmbH) – Flexible spraying technology for large castings using the BÖHMER Megabox.
  
  
• Lisa Aulbach (Aulbach Automation GmbH) – Challenges and trends in the deburring process for large structural die-castings.
  
  
• Norbert Feth (FRECH ZPF GmbH) – Innovative temperature management systems for the casting of large structural components.
  
  
• Martin Afkam (VDS SA) – Efficient vacuum processes for structural or large castings.

All in all, a very successful event, characterised by excellent organisation, valuable information and an inspiring atmosphere – a strong signal for the future.

Cheers!